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7 Days Shira Route
Kilimanjaro Trekking

The Shira Plateau

Trek across one of the highest plateaus on earth.

Barranco Wall

Scramble up the mountain’s most famous rock face.

Uhuru Peak

Stand on the roof of Africa at 5,895 metres.

Itinerary

Your 7-Day Shira Route Itinerary

Day 01 :
Shira Gate to Shira 1 Camp

Drive from Moshi or Arusha to Londorossi Gate to register, then continue by vehicle towards Shira Gate at around 3,600 m. Hike for about two hours across the plateau to Shira 1 Camp (3,500 m).

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 02 :
Shira 1 Camp to Shira 2 Camp

A gentle day across the Shira Plateau, with views of Kibo Peak and the western breach. Explore the area around camp to help your body adjust to the altitude. Overnight at Shira 2 Camp (3,850 m), about four to five hours.

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 03 :
Shira 2 Camp to Lava Tower and Barranco Camp

Climb to Lava Tower (4,630 m), a volcanic rock formation, before descending to Barranco Camp (3,960 m). This “climb high, sleep low” day is key to acclimatisation. Allow six to seven hours.

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 04 :
Barranco Camp to Karanga Camp

Scramble up the Barranco Wall, a steep but non-technical climb with rewarding views, then follow the trail through valleys and ridges to Karanga Camp (3,995 m). About four to five hours.

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 05 :
Karanga Camp to Barafu Camp

Hike up to Barafu Camp (4,673 m), your base for the summit attempt. Arrive in the early afternoon, rest, eat an early dinner and prepare for the night climb. About three to four hours.

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 06 :
Summit Day – Uhuru Peak and Descent to Mweka Camp

Set off around midnight for the long climb to Stella Point on the crater rim, then continue to Uhuru Peak (5,895 m), Africa’s highest point, for sunrise views. Descend to Barafu for a rest, then continue down to Mweka Camp (3,100 m). Expect 12-15 hours of walking.

Midrange: Quality mountain tents with warm sleeping mats and a dining tent.

Luxury: Upgraded tents, private toilet tent and extra comforts at camp.

Day 07 :
Mweka Camp to Mweka Gate

Walk down through the rainforest to Mweka Gate (1,640 m), where you collect your summit certificate. Transfer back to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha to celebrate.

Cost

What Your Kilimanjaro Trek Includes

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Map

Your Shira Route Map

Plan Your Trip

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    Tanzania Safari

    Frequently Asked Questions

    It is a challenging trek but requires no technical climbing. The main difficulty is the altitude, especially on summit night. Good fitness and a steady pace make a big difference.

    The driest months are January to March and June to October, which offer the most reliable weather. April, May and November are wetter and quieter on the mountain.

    Our guides check your health every day, including oxygen levels, and follow a “climb high, sleep low” approach. If anyone shows serious symptoms, they descend immediately with a crew member.

    No. Many climbers are first-time trekkers. We recommend regular hiking and cardio training in the months before your climb.

    You need warm layers, a waterproof jacket, broken-in hiking boots, a four-season sleeping bag and a headtorch. We share a full packing list after booking, and you can hire most items in Moshi.

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